Mobile communication device with low power receiver for signal detection

ABSTRACT

A mobile communication device with a low power receiver for signal detection and a method for utilizing a low power receiver for signal detection in a mobile communication device. Various aspects of the present invention comprise a first receiver module adapted to operate in a sleep mode. The first receiver module may also be adapted to receive a communication signal utilizing a first amount of power, where the communication signal is characterized by a first set of signal characteristics. A second receiver module may be adapted to receive a communication signal characterized by the first set of signal characteristics. The second receiver module may be adapted to receive a communication signal utilizing a second amount of power that is less than the first amount of power. A communication signal received by the second receiver module may be analyzed to determine a mode in which to operate the first receiver module.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS/INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

This patent application is related to and claims priority fromprovisional patent application Ser. No. 60/724,319 filed Oct. 6, 2005,and titled “MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICE WITH LOW POWER RECEIVER FORSIGNAL DETECTION,” the contents of which are hereby incorporated hereinby reference in their entirety. This patent application is also relatedto U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ filed concurrently with thepresent application, and titled “MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICE WITH LOWPOWER SIGNAL DETECTOR” (Attorney Docket No. 16676US02), which is herebyincorporated herein in its entirety by reference. This patentapplication is additionally related to U.S. patent application Ser. No.______ filed concurrently with the present application, and titled“SYSTEM AND METHOD PROVIDING LOW POWER OPERATION IN A MULTIMODECOMMUNICATION DEVICE” (Attorney Docket No. 16677US02), which is herebyincorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

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SEQUENCE LISTING

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MICROFICHE/COPYRIGHT REFERENCE

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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Mobile communication devices are continually increasing in popularity.Such mobile communication devices include, for example and withoutlimitation, cellular phones, paging devices, portable email devices, andpersonal digital assistants. Mobile communication devices provide theuser with the capability to conduct communications while moving througha variety of environments.

Mobile communication devices typically operate utilizing portable andfinite power supplies. Various methods and mechanisms have beendeveloped to operate mobile communication devices in energy-efficientmanners. For example, mobile communication devices may be operated invarious sleep modes. In one exemplary illustration, a mobilecommunication device (or portion thereof) may operate in a sleep modewhere the mobile communication device occasionally wakes up to determineif there is a communication network available and/or if there arecurrently messages awaiting delivery to the mobile communication device.In such exemplary sleep mode operation, the mobile communication devicewakes up and fully receives and processes communication signals (e.g.,through the full receive path of the mobile communication deviceutilizing full processing capability). Such full reception andprocessing expends finite energy resources, even in scenarios wherethere is no network available for the mobile communication device.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Various aspects of the present invention provide a mobile communicationdevice with a low power receiver for signal detection and a method forutilizing a low power receiver for signal detection in a mobilecommunication device, substantially as shown in and/or described inconnection with at least one of the figures, as set forth morecompletely in the claims. These and other advantages, aspects and novelfeatures of the present invention, as well as details of illustrativeaspects thereof, will be more fully understood from the followingdescription and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a portion of a first exemplary mobilecommunication device, in accordance with various aspects of the presentinvention.

FIG. 2A is a diagram illustrating a portion of a second exemplary mobilecommunication device, in accordance with various aspects of the presentinvention.

FIG. 2B is a diagram illustrating a portion of a third exemplary mobilecommunication device, in accordance with various aspects of the presentinvention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a portion of a fourth exemplary mobilecommunication device, in accordance with various aspects of the presentinvention.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a portion of a fifth exemplary mobilecommunication device, in accordance with various aspects of the presentinvention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a method, in a mobile communicationdevice, for operating the mobile communication device in anenergy-efficient manner, in accordance with various aspects of thepresent invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a portion of a first exemplary mobilecommunication device 100, in accordance with various aspects of thepresent invention. The mobile communication device 100 may comprisecharacteristics of any of a variety of mobile communication devicetypes. For example and without limitation, the mobile communicationdevice 100 may comprise characteristics of a cellular phone, pagingdevice, portable email device, personal digital assistant, portablecomputer with mobile communication capability, etc.

The exemplary mobile communication device 100 may comprise a firstreceiver module 110 that is adapted to receive at least onecommunication signal through an antenna 105. The following discussionmay generally discuss a received communication signal as a wirelesssignal (e.g., an RF signal). However, the received communication signalmay comprise characteristics of any of a variety of signals associatedwith various communication media (e.g., a wire signal, RF signal,tethered optical signal, non-tethered optical signal, etc.).Accordingly, the first receiver module 110 may comprise characteristicsof any of a variety of receivers associated with such signals.

The antenna 105, as illustrated in FIG. 1, may comprise only a singleantenna or a plurality of antennas (e.g., an N-antenna system, where Nis an integer). For example, the antenna 105 may comprisecharacteristics of an antenna array utilized forMultiple-Input-Multiple-Output (“MIMO”) communications or beam-formingcommunications. The antenna 105 may, for example, be adapted forcommunication in an IEEE 802.11(n) system. Accordingly, various aspectsof the present invention should not be limited by characteristics ofparticular single antenna or multiple antenna systems.

The first receiver module 110 may be adapted to receive at least onecommunication signal communicated in accordance with any of a variety ofcommunication protocols. For example and without limitation, the firstreceiver module 110 may be adapted to receive communication signalscommunicated in accordance with any or all of GSM/EDGE, GPRS, CDMA,WCDMA, TDMA, PDC, DVB-H, IEEE 802.11, IEEE 802.15, Bluetooth, Zigbee,UltraWideBand, Ethernet, Token Ring, etc.

The first receiver module 110 may, for example, be adapted to receiveand process a first communication signal that is characterized by afirst set of communication signal characteristics. Such a first set ofcommunication signal characteristics may, for example, comprisefrequency or frequency range characteristics, modulationcharacteristics, characteristics associated with a particularcommunication protocol, encoding characteristics, etc. For example, thefirst set of communication signal characteristics may correspond to acommunication signal communicated in accordance with one of thecommunication standards mentioned above. In a non-limiting exemplaryscenario, the first receiver module 110 may be adapted to receive andprocess a Bluetooth signal. In another non-limiting exemplary scenario,the first receiver module 110 may be adapted to receive and process aWLAN signal (or both Bluetooth and WLAN signals). In anothernon-limiting exemplary scenario, the first receiver module 110 may beadapted to receive and process a cellular telephony signal (e.g., a GSMor CDMA signal).

The first receiver module 110 may be adapted to consume a first amountof power while processing the received communication signal. Suchprocessing generally includes any of a variety of activities related toreceiving a communication signal and is not limited to digital signalprocessing. For example, such processing may comprise, amplifying,analog filtering and mixing a received communication signal. Also forexample, such processing may comprise frequency synthesizing,synchronizing, phase locking, etc. Additionally for example, suchprocessing may comprise demodulating, sampling, analog-to-digitalconverting, digital filtering, decoding, decompressing, decrypting,error correcting and any of a variety of other processing activitiesassociated with a received communication signal.

The first receiver module 110 may be adapted to operate in at least onesleep mode and in a “normal” mode, where the first receiver module 110generally receives and processes a communication signal. While operatingin the normal mode, the first receiver module 110 may, for example, beadapted to perform general communication activities typically associatedwith the received communication signal while consuming a first amount ofpower.

A sleep mode may be characterized by any of a variety of operatingcharacteristics generally associated with operation in one or more typesof sleep states. For example, a sleep mode may be characterized byperforming no processing or performing processing at a reducedprocessing rate. Also for example, a sleep mode may be characterized byperiodic waking. Further for example, a sleep mode may be characterizedby reduced voltage and/or current supply operation. Still further forexample, a sleep mode may be characterized by shutting off power to allof, or a portion of, a module.

The exemplary mobile communication device 100 may also comprise a secondreceiver module 120 that is adapted to receive at least onecommunication signal through the antenna 105. Though the exemplarymobile communication device 100 shows the first receiver module 110 andthe second receiver module 120 sharing the antenna 105, the first andsecond receiver modules 110, 120 may each be associated with differentantennas.

The communication signal may, for example, be characterized by the firstset of communication signal characteristics (e.g., similar to thecommunication signal received by the first receiver module 110). Thatis, the second receiver module 120 may be adapted to receive and processthe same type of communication signal(s) that the first receiver module110 is adapted to receive and process. As with the first receiver module110, the second receiver module 120 may be adapted to receive any of avariety of signals associated with various communication media. Also,the second receiver module 120 may be adapted to receive a communicationsignal associated with any of a variety of communication protocols.

In a non-limiting exemplary scenario, the first receiver module 110 maybe adapted to receive and process a Bluetooth signal, and the secondreceiver module 120 may be adapted to receive and process a Bluetoothsignal. In another non-limiting exemplary scenario, the first receivermodule 110 may be adapted to receive and process a WLAN signal (or bothBluetooth and WLAN signals), and the second receiver module 120 may beadapted to receive and process a WLAN signal (or both Bluetooth and WLANsignals). In yet another non-limiting exemplary scenario, the firstreceiver module 110 may be adapted to receive and process a cellulartelephony signal (e.g., a GSM and/or CDMA signal), and the secondreceiver module 120 may be adapted to receive and process a cellulartelephony signal (e.g., a GSM and/or CDMA signal).

The second receiver module 120 may be adapted to consume a second amountof power while processing the received communication signal. The secondamount of power may, for example, be less (e.g., significantly less froma power consumption perspective) than the first amount of power consumedby the first receiver module 110 while processing the same signal or asimilar signal. In a non-limiting exemplary scenario, the second amountof power may be at least 10% less than the first amount of power. Inanother non-limiting exemplary scenario, the second amount of power maybe at least 20% or 30% less than the first amount of power. In yetanother non-limiting exemplary scenario, the second amount of power maybe at least 50% or 80% less than the first amount of power.

The second receiver module 120 may be adapted to perform any or all ofthe processing discussed previously with regard to the first receivermodule 110. Note, however, that the second receiver module 120 may beadapted to perform any or all of the previously discussed processing ata reduced power consumption level relative to the first receiver module110. The following discussion will now present various non-limitingexemplary illustrations of how the second receiver module 120 might beadapted to perform processing similar to the first receiver module 110,but at a generally reduced level of power consumption.

In a first exemplary scenario, the first receiver module 110 may utilizea frequency synthesizer (or generator) that generates a signalcharacterized by a first quality level, and the second receiver module120 may utilize a frequency synthesizer that generates a signalcharacterized by a second quality level that is less than the firstquality level. Such quality levels may, for example, compriseindications of frequency accuracy, frequency stability, noise leveland/or any of a variety of characteristics associated with frequencysynthesizer (or generator) quality. For example, the second receivermodule 120 may utilize a frequency synthesizer characterized by lessfrequency accuracy (or less stability or more noise) than the firstreceiver module 110, but which consumes less power during operation.Utilizing a generally lower-quality frequency synthesizer (or generator)may correspond to lower power consumption in the second receiver module120 relative to the first receiver module 110. For example, utilizing agenerally lower quality phase lock loop circuit may correspond to lowerpower consumption in the second receiver module 120 relative to thefirst receiver module 110.

In a second exemplary scenario, the first receiver module 110 mayutilize one or more A/D converters that perform at a first performance(or quality) level, and the second receiver module 120 may utilize oneor more corresponding A/D converters that perform at a secondperformance (or quality) level that is less than the first performance(or quality) level. Such performance levels may, for example, compriseindications of bit resolution, noise level, temporal resolution (orsample rate) and/or any of a variety of performance characteristicsassociated with A/D converters. For example, the second receiver module120 may utilize one or more A/D converters that have a lower number ofbits (or quantization levels) than corresponding A/D converters of thefirst receiver module 110. Such A/D converters may, for example consumeless power than their higher-bit (or higher quantization level)counterparts. Also for example, the second receiver module 120 mayutilize one or more A/D converters that have a reduced sampling rate (ortemporal resolution) relative to corresponding A/D converters utilizedby the first receiver module 110. Such a lower sampling rate may, forexample, correspond generally to lower power consumption. Further forexample, the second receiver module 120 may utilize one or more A/Dconverters that have generally higher noise than corresponding A/Dconverters utilized by the first receiver module 110. Allowingrelatively higher noise may (e.g., by allowing for the utilization ofdifferent A/D circuitry) correspond to relatively lower powerconsumption.

In a third exemplary scenario, the first receiver module 110 may utilizeone or more filters (e.g., analog and/or digital filters) that performat a first performance (or quality) level, and the second receivermodule 120 may utilize one or more corresponding filters that perform ata second performance (or quality) level that is less than the firstperformance (or quality) level. Such performance levels may, forexample, comprise indications of noise level, filtering accuracy oreffectiveness, frequency band-stop or band-pass roll-off, etc. Forexample, the second receiver module 120 may utilize one or more filtersthat have a slower frequency attenuation roll-off than correspondingfilters of the first receiver module 110. Also for example, the secondreceiver module 120 may utilize one or more digital filters having alower number of taps, than corresponding filters of the first receivermodule 110. Utilizing a filter with a lower number of taps might (e.g.,by reducing components and amount of processing) corresponding torelatively lower power consumption. Note also that for additional powersavings, the second receiver module 120 may omit various filters (orother components) that are utilized in the first receiver module 110.

In a fourth exemplary scenario, the first receiver module 110 mayutilize a first amount of digital signal processing to process acommunication signal, and the second receiver module 120 may utilize asecond amount of digital signal processing to process a similarcommunication signal, where the second amount of digital signalprocessing is less than the first amount of digital signal processing.Such digital signal processing may comprise characteristics of any of avariety of types of digital signal processing. For example and withoutlimitation, such digital signal processing may comprise performingFFT/DFFT processing, decoding, decryption, error correction, etc. Forexample, the second receiver module 120 may perform less decoding (e.g.,lower accuracy decoding or lower resolution decoding) than the firstreceiver module 110. Also for example, the second receiver module 120may be adapted to perform less (or no) error correction than the firstreceiver module 110. Additionally for example, the second receivermodule 120 may be adapted to perform signal processing at a lower speed(e.g., a lower clock rate) than the first receiver module 110. Furtherfor example, the second receiver module 120 may be adapted to performsignal processing at a lower bit resolution than the first receivermodule 110. Such reduced processing might generally correspond to lowerpower consumption.

In a fifth exemplary scenario, the first receiver module 110 may utilizeone or more components constructed using a first technology (e.g., afirst semiconductor technology), and the second receiver module 120 mayutilize one or more components constructed using a second technology,where the second technology is more energy-efficient than the firsttechnology. For example, the second receiver module 120 may comprise oneor more components that are constructed utilizing device technologies,where such components might operate at a relatively lower performancebut at a relatively higher level of energy-efficiency.

In a sixth exemplary scenario, the first receiver module 110 may beadapted to provide power to various components (e.g., voltage and/orcurrent) at first power supply levels, and the second receiver module120 may be adapted to provide power to various corresponding componentsat second power supply levels that are generally lower than the firstpower supply levels. For example, the first receiver module 110 mayprovide voltage to one or more electrical components at a first voltagelevel, and the second receiver module 120 may generally provide power toone or more corresponding electrical components at a second voltagelevel that is at least 5% (or 10%, 20%, 25%, etc.) lower than the firstvoltage level. Such power supply difference may, for example, correspondto relatively reduced performance level at a relatively reduced level ofpower consumption.

As mentioned previously, the prior exemplary scenarios are merelyillustrative. Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the presentinvention should not be limited by characteristics of any of theprevious examples.

As mentioned previously, the first receiver module 110 may be generallyadapted to perform general communications between the mobilecommunication device 100 and other communicating devices. The secondreceiver module 120 may, for example and without limitation, bespecifically adapted to perform packet detection. In such an adaptation,the second receiver module 120 may be adapted to perform such packetdetection utilizing a minimum amount of electrical power (or energy).

In a non-limiting exemplary scenario, the second receiver module 120 maybe adapted to operate continuously (e.g., while the mobile communicationdevice 100 is operating). In another non-limiting scenario, the secondreceiver module 120 may (e.g., similar to the first receiver module110), be adapted to operate in at least one sleep mode. Various sleepmode characteristics were discussed previously. By way of non-limitingexample, the second receiver module 120 may be adapted to enter sleepmode and periodically wake to receive and process a communicationsignal. Also for example, the second receiver module 120 may be adaptedto enter sleep mode and exit sleep mode in response to a real-timeoperation condition.

The mobile communication device 100 may, in various non-limitingexemplary configurations, comprise a sleep mode control module 130. Thesleep mode control module 130 may generally be adapted to control sleepmode characteristics of the first receiver module 110 (and, in variousconfigurations, the second receiver module 120). The sleep mode controlmodule 130 may, for example, be implemented in hardware, software or acombination thereof.

The sleep mode control module 130 may, for example, be adapted toanalyze a communication signal (e.g., as received by the second receivermodule 120) to determine whether to operate the first receiver module110 in a sleep mode or in a non-sleep (or “normal”) mode. For example,the sleep mode control module 130 may be adapted to analyze informationobtained from the communication signal by the second receiver module120. The sleep mode control module 130 may then, based at least in parton such information, determine whether to operate the first receivermodule 110 in a sleep mode or in a non-sleep mode.

The sleep mode control module 130 may be adapted to analyze any of avariety of types of information that may be communicated by a receivedcommunication signal. For example and without limitation, suchinformation may comprise information identifying a source of thecommunication signal. Such information may, for example, identify anoriginal sender of a communication signal or may identify anintermediate communicator of a communication signal (e.g., acommunication network or an access point). In a non-limiting exemplaryscenario, the sleep mode control module 130 might only wake the firstreceiver module 110 in response to a signal received from a particularsource. In another non-limiting exemplary scenario, the sleep modecontrol module 130 might only wake the first receiver module 110 inresponse to a communication received from any of a number of sourceslisted in a user-defined profile.

Such information may also, for example, comprise information identifyinga destination of a communication. For example, such information mayidentify a particular intended recipient (e.g., the mobile communicationdevice 100) of a communication signal or a group of recipients (e.g., anemail group, subscriber group, etc.). In a non-limiting exemplaryscenario, the sleep mode control module 130 might only determine tooperate the first receiver module 110 in a non-sleep mode in response toa communication identifying the mobile communication device 100 as aspecific intended recipient of the communication.

Such information may also, for example, comprise information indicatingwhether a message is awaiting delivery to the mobile communicationdevice 100. For example, a communication network may store messages forthe mobile communication device 100 at an access point or a centrallocation until the mobile communication device 100 exits sleep mode. Insuch an exemplary scenario, the sleep mode control module 130 mayanalyze information obtained from a communication signal, where suchinformation indicates that a message is awaiting delivery to the mobilecommunication device 100. In response, the sleep mode control module 130might determine to operate the first receiver module 110 in a non-sleepmode to retrieve the awaiting message(s) from the communication network.

Such information may additionally, for example, comprise informationindicating the initiation of a peer-to-peer communication (e.g., atelephone or videophone call). For example, the sleep mode controlmodule 130 may determine a telephone call communication is arriving atthe mobile communication device 100 and wake the first receiver module110 to process the incoming telephone call. Such information mayfurther, for example, comprise information indicating urgency of acommunication. For example, the sleep mode control module 130 mightanalyze such information and determine that an incoming communication isnot urgent enough to warrant waking the first receiver module 110.

The previous information examples are merely illustrative. Accordingly,the scope of various aspects of the present invention should not belimited by characteristics of any of the previous examples or by anyparticular information that may be communicated in a signal, received bya receiver, or analyzed to determine whether to operate in a sleep ornon-sleep mode.

FIG. 2A is a diagram illustrating a portion of a second exemplary mobilecommunication device 200, in accordance with various aspects of thepresent invention. The exemplary mobile communication device 200 may,for example and without limitation, share any or all characteristicswith the exemplary mobile communication device 100 illustrated in FIG. 1and discussed previously.

As mentioned previously in the discussion of FIG. 1, various modules maybe independent or may share various portions. FIG. 2A illustrates anexemplary configuration where the first receiver module 210, the secondreceiver module 220 and the sleep mode control module 230 areindependent.

The exemplary mobile communication device 200 may comprise a firstreceiver module 210 that is adapted to receive at least onecommunication signal through an antenna 205. The first receiver module210 may, for example and without limitation, share any or all of thecharacteristics of the first receiver module 110 illustrated in FIG. 1and discussed previously.

The communication signal may, for example, be characterized by a firstset of communication signal characteristics (e.g., associated with anyof a variety of communication media or any of a variety of communicationprotocols). The first receiver module 210 may, for example, comprise afirst radio module 212 and a first baseband processor 214. The firstradio module 212 may, for example, receive an RF communication signalfrom the antenna 205 and convert the received RF communication signal toa baseband communication signal. The first baseband processor 214 maythen process the baseband communication signal to determine informationcommunicated by the baseband communication signal.

The first receiver module 210 may be adapted to consume a first amountof power while processing a received communication signal. For example,the first radio module 212 may be generally adapted to consume aparticular amount of respective power while processing a receivedcommunication signal, and the first baseband processor 214 may also beadapted to consume a particular amount of respective power whileprocessing a received communication signal.

The first receiver module 210 may be adapted to operate in at least onesleep mode and a non-sleep mode. For example, the first radio module 212(or portions thereof) may be adapted to operate in at least one sleepmode and a non-sleep mode. Also for example, the first basebandprocessor 214 (or portions thereof) may be adapted to operate in atleast one sleep mode and a non-sleep mode. Various characteristics ofsleep mode and non-sleep mode operation were discussed previously.

The exemplary mobile communication device 200 may also comprise a secondreceiver module 220 that is adapted to receive at least onecommunication signal through the antenna 205. The second receiver module220 may, for example and without limitation, share any or allcharacteristics with the second receiver module 120 illustrated in FIG.1 and discussed previously.

Though the exemplary mobile communication device 200 shows the firstreceiver module 210 and the second receiver module 220 sharing theantenna 205, the first and second receiver modules 210, 220 may each beassociated with separate respective antennas.

The communication signal may, for example, be characterized by the firstset of communication signal characteristics. That is, the secondreceiver module 220 may be adapted to receive and process the same typeof communication signal(s) that the first receiver module 210 is adaptedto receive and process.

The second receiver module 220 may, for example, comprise a second radiomodule 222 and a second baseband processor 224. The second radio module222 may, for example, receive an RF communication signal from theantenna 205 and convert the received RF communication signal to abaseband communication signal. The second baseband processor 224 maythen process the baseband communication signal to determine informationcommunicated by the baseband communication signal. In the exemplarymobile communication device 200 illustrated in FIG. 2A, the first radiomodule 212 and the second radio module 222 are independent, and thefirst baseband processor 214 and the second baseband processor 224 areindependent. As will be illustrated later, such independence is notnecessary.

The second receiver module 220 may be adapted to consume a second amountof power while processing a received communication signal. For example,the second radio module 222 may be generally adapted to consume aparticular amount of respective power while processing a receivedcommunication signal, and the second baseband processor 224 may also beadapted to consume a particular amount of respective power whileprocessing a received communication signal. The second amount of powermay, for example, be less (e.g., significantly less from a powerconsumption perspective) than the first amount of power consumed by thefirst receiver module 210 while processing the same communication signalor a similar communication signal.

The second receiver module 220 may also, in various exemplary scenarios,be adapted to operate in at least one sleep mode and a non-sleep mode.For example, the second radio module 222 (or portions thereof) may beadapted to operate in at least one sleep mode and a non-sleep mode. Alsofor example, the second baseband processor 224 (or portions thereof) maybe adapted to operate in at least one sleep mode and a non-sleep mode.Various characteristics of sleep mode and non-sleep mode operation werediscussed previously.

The exemplary mobile communication device 200 may also comprise a sleepmode control module 230. The sleep mode control module 230 may share anyor all characteristics with the sleep mode control module 130illustrated in FIG. 1 and discussed previously. For example, the sleepmode control module 230 may generally be adapted to control sleep modecharacteristics of the first receiver module 210 (and, in variousconfigurations, the second receiver module 220).

The sleep mode control module 230 may, for example, be adapted toanalyze a communication signal (e.g., as received by the second receivermodule 220) to determine whether to operate the first receiver module210 in a sleep mode or in a non-sleep (or “normal”) mode. For example,the sleep mode control module 230 may be adapted to analyze informationobtained from the communication signal by the second receiver module220. The sleep mode control module 230 may then, based at least in parton such information, determine whether to operate the first receivermodule 210 in a sleep mode or in a non-sleep mode.

In the exemplary configuration illustrated in FIG. 2A, the sleep modecontrol module 230 is independent of the first receiver module 210(e.g., including the first radio module 212 and the first basebandprocessor 214) and the second receiver module 220 (e.g., including thesecond radio module 222 and the second baseband processor 224). As willbe illustrated later, such independence is not necessary. The sleep modecontrol module 230 may be implemented in hardware, software or acombination thereof.

FIG. 2B is a diagram illustrating a portion of a third exemplary mobilecommunication device 250, in accordance with various aspects of thepresent invention. The exemplary communication device 250 may, forexample and without limitation, share various characteristics with theexemplary mobile communication devices 100, 200 illustrated in FIGS.1-2A and discussed previously.

As mentioned previously in the discussion of FIG. 1, various modules maybe independent or may share various portions. FIG. 2B illustrates anexemplary configuration where the first receiver module 260 and thesecond receiver module 270 comprise independent respective radio modules262, 272 and share a baseband processor 264.

The first radio module 262 and the second radio module 272 may, forexample and without limitation, share various characteristics with theexemplary radio modules 212, 222 illustrated in FIG. 2A and discussedpreviously. The first and second radio modules 262, 272 may, forexample, be communicatively coupled to the baseband processor 264through dedicated lines, a shared bus or through any of a variety ofswitching or multiplexing circuitry.

The baseband processor 264 may, for example and without limitation,share various characteristics with the exemplary baseband processors214, 224 illustrated in FIG. 2A and discussed previously. The basebandprocessor 264 may, for example, comprise various hardware and/orsoftware components with the previously discussed baseband processors214, 224.

In a non-limiting exemplary scenario, the baseband processor 264 may beadapted to process a received baseband communication signal differentlydepending on whether the baseband communication signal was received fromthe first radio module 262 or the second radio module 272. Suchdifferent processing may, for example, be implemented utilizingdifferent hardware, programmable hardware or different software. Thebaseband processor 264 may, for example, be adapted to process abaseband communication signal received from the second radio module 272utilizing lower power than when processing the same or similar basebandcommunication signal received from the first radio module 262.

In another non-limiting exemplary scenario, the baseband processor 264may be adapted to always process a received baseband communicationsignal in the same manner, regardless of which radio module 262, 272provides the baseband communication signal. In such an exemplaryscenario, the second receiver module 270 may be adapted to utilize lesspower than the first receiver module 262 through the utilization ofdifferent respective radio modules 262, 272.

The exemplary mobile communication device 250 may also comprise a sleepmode control module 280. The sleep mode control module 280 may, forexample and without limitation, share various characteristics with thesleep mode control modules, 130, 230 illustrated in FIGS. 1-2A anddiscussed previously.

In the exemplary configuration illustrated in FIG. 2B, the sleep modecontrol module 280 is implemented in the baseband processor 280. Thesleep mode control module 280 may, for example, be implemented in thebaseband processor 280 with dedicated and/or shared components (e.g.,hardware and/or software components). The sleep mode control module 280may, for example, be communicatively coupled to the first radio module262 and/or the second radio module 272 through dedicated lines and/or ashared communication bus.

The sleep mode control module 280 may, for example, be adapted toanalyze a communication signal (e.g., as received by the second radiomodule 272 of the second receiver module 270) to determine whether tooperate the first receiver module 210 (e.g., the first radio module 262and/or the shared baseband processor 264 or portions thereof) in a sleepmode or in a non-sleep mode. For example, the sleep mode control module280 may be adapted to analyze information obtained from thecommunication signal by the second receiver module 270. The sleep modecontrol module 280 may then, based at least in part on such information,determine whether to operate the first receiver module 260 (e.g., thefirst radio module 262 and/or the shared baseband processor 264 orportions thereof) in a sleep mode or in a non-sleep mode.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a portion of a fourth mobilecommunication device 300, in accordance with various aspects of thepresent invention. The exemplary mobile communication device 300 may,for example and without limitation, share any or all characteristicswith the exemplary mobile communication devices 100, 200, 250illustrated in FIGS. 1-2B and discussed previously.

As mentioned previously in the discussion of FIGS. 1-2B, various modulesof a mobile communication device may be independent or may share variousportions. FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary configuration where the firstreceiver module 310, the second receiver module 320 and the sleep modecontrol module 330 are at least partially integrated (i.e., they shareare least a portion of their hardware and/or software with each other).

Note that taking the exemplary mobile communication device 300illustrated in FIG. 3 to the extreme, the first and second receivermodules may share all of (or virtually all of) their components. Such aconfiguration may, for example, be realized in various programmableradio configurations.

The exemplary mobile communication device 300 may comprise a firstreceiver module 310 that is adapted to receive at least onecommunication signal through an antenna 305. The first receiver module310 may, for example and without limitation, share variouscharacteristics with the first receiver modules 110, 210, 260illustrated in FIGS. 1-2B and discussed previously.

The communication signal may, for example, be characterized by a firstset of communication signal characteristics (e.g., associated with anyof a variety of communication media or any of a variety of communicationprotocols). The first receiver module 310 may, for example, comprise afirst radio module 312 and a first baseband processor 314. The firstradio module 312 may, for example, receive an RF communication signalfrom the antenna 305 and convert the received RF communication signal toa baseband communication signal. The first baseband processor 314 maythen process the baseband communication signal to determine informationcommunicated by the baseband communication signal.

The first receiver module 310 may be adapted to consume a first amountof power while processing a received communication signal. For example,the first radio module 312 may be generally adapted to consume aparticular amount of respective power while processing a receivedcommunication signal, and the first baseband processor 314 may also beadapted to consume a particular amount of respective power whileprocessing a received communication signal.

The first receiver module 310 may be adapted to operate in at least onesleep mode and a non-sleep mode. For example, the first radio module 312(or portions thereof) may be adapted to operate in at least one sleepmode and a non-sleep mode. Also for example, the first basebandprocessor 314 (or portions thereof) may be adapted to operate in atleast one sleep mode and a non-sleep mode. Various characteristics ofsleep mode and non-sleep mode operation were discussed previously.

The exemplary mobile communication device 300 may also comprise a secondreceiver module 320 that is adapted to receive at least onecommunication signal through the antenna 305. The second receiver module320 may, for example and without limitation, share any or allcharacteristics with the second receiver modules 120, 220, 270illustrated in FIGS. 1-2B and discussed previously.

Though the exemplary mobile communication device 300 shows the firstreceiver module 310 and the second receiver module 320 sharing theantenna 305, the first and second receiver modules 310, 320 may each beassociated with separate respective antennas.

The communication signal may, for example, be characterized by the firstset of communication signal characteristics. That is, the secondreceiver module 320 may be adapted to receive and process the same typeof communication signal(s) that the first receiver module 310 is adaptedto receive and process.

The second receiver module 320 may, for example, comprise a second radiomodule 322 and a second baseband processor 324. The second radio module322 may, for example, receive an RF communication signal from theantenna 305 and convert the received RF communication signal to abaseband communication signal. The second baseband processor 324 maythen process the baseband communication signal to determine informationcommunicated by the baseband communication signal.

In the exemplary mobile communication device 300 illustrated in FIG. 3,the first radio module 312 and the second radio module 322 are at leastpartially integrated. This is illustrated by the overlapping blocks.Such partial integration may comprise characteristics of hardware and/orsoftware integration. By way of non-limiting illustration, the firstradio module 312 and the second radio module 322 may share any of avariety of components (e.g., filters, amplifiers, oscillators, phaselocking circuitry, mixers, etc.).

Such shared components may, for example, be coupled utilizing any of avariety of switching circuits that provide for shared components to beswitched in and out of the first radio module 312 and the second radiomodule 322. Such shared components may also, for example, be adjustable.For example, a shared component may be adjustable to operate differentlywith the first radio module 312 and the second radio module 322. Forexample, a shared amplifier may have adjustable gain, noise andlinearity settings. Also for example, a shared filter may comprisedifferent gain, noise and frequency-pass/stop settings. Further forexample, a shared frequency generating circuit may comprise differentaccuracy or stability settings. For example, a shared component may beswitchable between relatively high-power operation for utilization withthe first radio module 312 and relatively low-power operation forutilization with the second radio module 322.

In the exemplary mobile communication device 300 illustrated in FIG. 3,the first baseband processor 314 and the second baseband processor 324are also at least partially integrated. This is illustrated by theoverlapping blocks. Such partial integration may comprisecharacteristics of hardware and/or software integration. By way ofnon-limiting illustration, the first baseband processor 314 and thesecond baseband processor 324 may share any of a variety of components(e.g., A/D converters, digital signal processing circuitry, decoders,decrypters, demodulators, etc.). Also for example, the first and secondbaseband processors 314, 324 may share various software modules.

Such share components may, for example, be coupled utilizing any of avariety of switching circuits (or software) that provide for sharedcomponents to be switched in and out of the first baseband processor 314and the second baseband processor 324. Such shared components may also,for example, be adjustable. For example, a shared component may beadjustable to operate differently with the first baseband processor 314and the second baseband processor 324. For example, a shared A/Dconverter may have adjustable sample rate, bit resolution or noisesettings. Also for example, a shared digital signal processing circuitmay comprise different clock speed or processing rate settings. Furtherfor example, a shared decoder may comprise different accuracy orreliability settings. For example, a shared component may be switchablebetween relatively high-power operation for utilization with the firstbaseband processor 314 and relatively low-power operation forutilization with the second baseband processor 324.

The second receiver module 320 may be adapted to consume a second amountof power while processing a received communication signal. For example,the second radio module 322 may be generally adapted to consume aparticular amount of respective power while processing a receivedcommunication signal, and the second baseband processor 324 may also beadapted to consume a particular amount of respective power whileprocessing a received communication signal. The second amount of powermay, for example, be less (e.g., significantly less from a powerconsumption perspective) than the first amount of power consumed by thefirst receiver module 310 while processing the same communication signalor a similar communication signal.

The second receiver module 320 may also, in various exemplary scenarios,be adapted to operate in at least one sleep mode and a non-sleep mode.For example, the second radio module 322 (or portions thereof) may beadapted to operate in at least one sleep mode and a non-sleep mode. Alsofor example, the second baseband processor 324 (or portions thereof) maybe adapted to operate in at least one sleep mode and a non-sleep mode.Various characteristics of sleep mode and non-sleep mode operation werediscussed previously.

The exemplary mobile communication device 300 may also comprise a sleepmode control module 330. The sleep mode control module 330 may share anyor all characteristics with the sleep mode control modules 130, 230, 280illustrated in FIGS. 1-2B and discussed previously. For example, thesleep mode control module 330 may generally be adapted to control sleepmode characteristics of the first receiver module 310 (and, in variousconfigurations, the second receiver module 320).

The sleep mode control module 330 may, for example, be adapted toanalyze a communication signal (e.g., as received by the second receivermodule 320) to determine whether to operate the first receiver module310 in a sleep mode or in a non-sleep (or “normal”) mode. For example,the sleep mode control module 330 may be adapted to analyze informationobtained from the communication signal by the second receiver module320. The sleep mode control module 330 may then, based at least in parton such information, determine whether to operate the first receivermodule 310 in a sleep mode or in a non-sleep mode.

In the exemplary configuration illustrated in FIG. 3, the sleep modecontrol module 330 is implemented in components (e.g., hardware and/orsoftware) shared by the first baseband processor 314 and the secondbaseband processor 324. The sleep mode control module 330 may beimplemented in hardware, software or a combination thereof.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a portion of a fifth mobilecommunication device 400, in accordance with various aspects of thepresent invention. The exemplary mobile communication device 400 isillustrated to provide non-limiting examples of various sub-componentsof receiving module hardware and/or software previously discussed at ahigher level. It should be understood that the exemplary mobilecommunication device 400 is merely exemplary and the scope of variousaspects of the present invention should not be limited by particularcharacteristics of the exemplary mobile communication device 400.

As mentioned previously in the discussion of FIG. 1, various modules maybe independent or may share various portions. FIG. 4 illustrates anexemplary configuration where the first receiver module 410 and thesecond receiver module 420 are independent, and the sleep mode controlmodule 430 is integrated with the second receiver module 420.

The exemplary mobile communication device 400 may comprise a firstreceiver module 410 that is adapted to receive at least onecommunication signal through an antenna 405. The first receiver module410 may, for example and without limitation, share any or all of thecharacteristics with the first receiver modules 110, 210, 260, 310illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 and discussed previously. The communicationsignal may, for example, be characterized by a first set ofcommunication signal characteristics (e.g., associated with any of avariety of communication media or any of a variety of communicationprotocols).

The first receiver module 410 may, for example, comprise a first radiomodule 412 and a first baseband processor 414. The first radio module412 may, for example, comprise a filter 432, an amplifier 434 and adownconversion module 436, which comprises a local oscillator 438, mixer440, filter 442 and amplifier 444. The first baseband processor 414 may,for example, comprise a first A/D converter 446, first filter 447,second A/D converter 448, second filter 449 and a baseband digitalsignal processor 450.

The first radio module 412 may, for example, receive an RF communicationsignal from the antenna 405. The first radio module 412 may then filterthe RF communication signal with the filter 432 and amplify the filteredRF communication signal with the amplifier 434 (e.g., a low-noiseamplifier). The mixer 440 of the downconversion module 436 receives theamplified RF communication signal from the amplifier 434 and mixes theamplified RF communication signal with a signal from the localoscillator 438. The mixed signal output from the mixer 440 is thenfiltered by the filter 442 and amplified by the amplifier 444. Thedownconversion module 436 then outputs a baseband communication signal.Though the output signal is illustrated as one line, in this exemplaryscenario, the downconversion module 436 actually outputs I and Qcomponents of the baseband communication signal. Thus, thedownconversion module 436 may also comprise additional mixing circuitry(not shown) to generate both I and Q components of the basebandcommunication signal.

The first baseband processor 414 receives the I and Q basebandcommunication signals from the downconversion module 436 and digitizesthe received I and Q baseband communication signals with a first A/Dconverter 446 and second A/D converter 448, respectively. The digitizedI and Q baseband communication signals are then filtered by the firstfilter 447 and second filter 449, respectively, and passed to thebaseband digital signal processor 450 for further processing. Suchfurther processing may comprise characteristics of any of a largevariety of signal processing activities, some of which were presentedpreviously. For example and without limitation, the baseband digitalsignal processor 450 may be adapted to determine information carried bythe baseband communication signal(s).

The first receiver module 410 may be adapted to consume a first amountof power while processing a received communication signal. For example,the components of the first radio module 412 may be generally adapted toconsume respective amounts of respective power while processing areceived communication signal, and the components of the first basebandprocessor 414 may also be adapted to consume particular amounts ofrespective power while processing a received communication signal.

The first receiver module 410 (or components thereof) may be adapted tooperate in at least one sleep mode and a non-sleep mode. For example,the first radio module 412 (or any of the components thereof) may beadapted to operate in at least one sleep mode and a non-sleep mode. Alsofor example, the first baseband processor 414 (or any of the componentsthereof) may be adapted to operate in at least one sleep mode and anon-sleep mode. Various characteristics of sleep mode and non-sleep modeoperation were discussed previously.

The exemplary mobile communication device 400 may also comprise a secondreceiver module 420 that is adapted to receive at least onecommunication signal through the antenna 405. The second receiver module420 may, for example and without limitation, share any or allcharacteristics with the second receiver modules 120, 220, 270, 320illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 and discussed previously.

Though the exemplary mobile communication device 400 shows the firstreceiver module 410 and the second receiver module 420 sharing theantenna 405, the first and second receiver modules 410, 420 may each beassociated with separate respective antennas.

The communication signal may, for example, be characterized by the firstset of communication signal characteristics. That is, the secondreceiver module 420 may be adapted to receive and process the same typeof communication signal(s) that the first receiver module 410 is adaptedto receive and process.

The second receiver module 420 may, for example, comprise a second radiomodule 422 and a second baseband processor 424. The second radio module422 may, for example, comprise a filter 462, an amplifier 464 and adownconversion module 466, which comprises a local oscillator 468, mixer470, filter 472 and amplifier 474. The second baseband processor 424may, for example, comprise a first A/D converter 476, first filter 477,second A/D converter 478, second filter 479 and a baseband digitalsignal processor 480.

The second radio module 422 may, for example, receive an RFcommunication signal from the antenna 405. The second radio module 422may then filter the RF communication signal with the filter 462 andamplify the filtered RF communication signal with the amplifier 464(e.g., a low-noise amplifier). The mixer 470 of the downconversionmodule 466 receives the amplified RF communication signal from theamplifier 464 and mixes the amplified RF communication signal with asignal from the local oscillator 468. The mixed signal output from themixer 470 is then filtered by the filter 472 and amplified by theamplifier 474. The downconversion module 466 then outputs a basebandcommunication signal. Though the output signal is illustrated as oneline, in this exemplary scenario, the downconversion module 466 actuallyoutputs I and Q components of the baseband communication signal. Thus,the downconversion module 466 may also comprise additional mixingcircuitry (not shown) to generate both I and Q components of thebaseband communication signal.

The second baseband processor 424 receives the I and Q basebandcommunication signals from the downconversion module 476 and digitizesthe received I and Q baseband communication signals with a first A/Dconverter 466 and second A/D converter 478, respectively. The digitizedI and Q baseband communication signals are then filtered by the firstfilter 477 and second filter 479 respectively and passed to the basebanddigital signal processor 480 for further processing. Such furtherprocessing may comprise characteristics of any of a large variety ofsignal processing activities, some of which were presented previously.For example and without limitation, the baseband digital signalprocessor 480 may be adapted to determine information carried by thebaseband communication signal(s).

The second receiver module 420 may be adapted to consume a second amountof power while processing a received communication signal. For example,the components of the second radio module 422 may be generally adaptedto consume particular amounts of respective power while processing areceived communication signal, and components of the second basebandprocessor 424 may also be adapted to consume particular amounts ofrespective power while processing a received communication signal. Thesecond amount of power may, for example, be less (e.g., significantlyless from a power consumption perspective) than the first amount ofpower consumed by components of the first receiver module 410 whileprocessing the same communication signal or a similar communicationsignal.

As discussed previously, various components of the second receivermodule 420 may be adapted to consume less power than correspondingcomponents of the first receiver module 410. Savings in powerconsumption may, for example, correspond to relatively lowerperformance. For example and without limitation, various filters (e.g.,filters 462, 472, 477 and 479) of the second receiver module 420 may beadapted to consume less power than various corresponding filters (e.g.,filters 432, 442, 447 and 449) of the first receiver module 410. Alsofor example, various amplifiers (e.g., amplifiers 464 and 474) of thesecond receiver module 420 may be adapted to consume less power thanvarious corresponding amplifiers (e.g., amplifiers 434 and 444) of thefirst receiver module 410. Further for example, the local oscillator 468(and related components) of the second receiver module 420 may beadapted to consume less power than the corresponding local oscillator438 of the first receiver module 410. Still further for example, variousA/D converters (e.g., A/D converters 476 and 478) of the second receivermodule 420 may be adapted to consume less power than corresponding A/Dconverters (e.g., A/D converters 446 and 448) of the first receivermodule 410. Additionally for example, though not illustrated in FIG. 4,various components of the first receiver module 410 may also be omittedfrom the second receiver module 420 where unnecessary (e.g., to conserveadditional power).

The exemplary mobile communication device 400 may also comprise a sleepmode control module 430. The sleep mode control module 430 may sharevarious characteristics with the sleep mode control modules 130, 230,280, 330 illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 and discussed previously. For example,the sleep mode control module 430 may generally be adapted to controlsleep mode characteristics of the first receiver module 410 (and, invarious configurations, the second receiver module 420).

The sleep mode control module 430 may, for example, be adapted toanalyze a communication signal (e.g., as received by the second receivermodule 420) to determine whether to operate the first receiver module410 in a sleep mode or in a non-sleep (or “normal”) mode. For example,the sleep mode control module 430 may be adapted to analyze informationobtained from the communication signal by the second receiver module420. The sleep mode control module 430 may then, based at least in parton such information, determine whether to operate the first receivermodule 410 (or various components thereof) in a sleep mode or in anon-sleep mode.

In the exemplary configuration illustrated in FIG. 4, the sleep modecontrol module 430 is implemented in the baseband processor module 424(e.g., executed in the baseband DSP 480) of the second receiver module420. The sleep mode control module 430 is communicatively coupled tovarious components of the first receiver module 410 to control sleepmode operation of such various components. For example, the sleep modecontrol module 430 is communicatively coupled to various components ofthe first radio module 412 and to various components of the firstbaseband processor 414. The sleep mode control module 430 may, forexample, be adapted to control sleep mode operation of any of the vastarray of components that may be utilized to implement a receiver module.

The exemplary mobile communication devices 100, 200, 300, 400illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 may be implemented utilizing any of a varietyof components (e.g., hardware and/or a combination of hardware andsoftware). Further, various portions of the exemplary communicationdevices 100, 200, 250, 300, 400 may be implemented in independentintegrated circuits and/or integrated into a single integrated circuit.For example and without limitation, the first and second receivermodules may be integrated into a single integrated circuit. Also forexample, the first and second receiver modules and the sleep modecontrol module may be integrated into a single integrated circuit. Thescope of various aspects of the present invention should not be limitedby characteristics of any particular hardware and/or softwareimplementation or by any particular degree of integration.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a method 500, in a mobile communicationdevice, for operating the mobile communication device in anenergy-efficient manner, in accordance with various aspects of thepresent invention. The exemplary method 500 may, for example and withoutlimitation, share any or all functional characteristics with theexemplary mobile communication devices 100, 200, 250, 300, 400illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 and discussed previously. The mobilecommunication device may comprise characteristics of any of a variety oftypes of mobile communication devices, as discussed previously.

The exemplary method 500 may begin executing at step 505. The exemplarymethod 500 may begin executing for any of a variety of reasons. Forexample and without limitation, the exemplary method 500 may beginexecuting in response to powering up or resetting a mobile communicationdevice implementing the method 500. Also for example, the exemplarymethod 500 may begin executing in response to a command (e.g., from auser or another communication device). Further for example, theexemplary method 500 may begin executing in response to a detectedperiod of inactivity with a mobile communication device implementing themethod 500 or in response to any of a large variety of operationalconditions.

The exemplary method 500 may, at step 510, comprise operating a firstreceiver (or first receiver module) of the mobile communication devicein a sleep mode. Various exemplary sleep mode characteristics werediscussed previously. The first receiver may, for example, be adaptedto, while operating in a normal (i.e., non-sleep) mode, process acommunication signal characterized by a first set of communicationsignal characteristics. Such communication signal characteristics werealso generally discussed previously. The first receiver may also, forexample, be adapted to consume a first amount of power while processingsuch a communication signal.

The first receiver may comprise any of a variety of receivercharacteristics. For example and without limitation, the first receivermay share various characteristics with the first receiver modules 110,210, 260, 310, 410 of the exemplary mobile communication devices 100,200, 250, 300, 400 illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 and discussed previously.For example, the first receiver may be adapted to receive any of avariety of types of communication signals (e.g., a wire signal, RFsignal, tethered optical signal, non-tethered optical signal, etc.).Also for example, the first receiver may be adapted to receive acommunication signal communicated in accordance with any of a variety ofcommunication protocols. In a non-limiting exemplary scenario, the firstreceiver may be adapted to receive and process a Bluetooth signal. Inanother non-limiting exemplary scenario, the first receiver may beadapted to receive and process a WLAN signal (and/or a Bluetoothsignal). In another non-limiting exemplary scenario, the first receivermay be adapted to receive and process a cellular telephony signal.

The first receiver may be adapted to operate in at least one sleep modeand in a “normal” mode, where the first receiver generally receives andprocesses a communication signal (e.g., consuming a first amount ofpower). While operating in the normal mode, the first receiver may, forexample, be adapted to perform general communication activitiestypically associated with a received communication signal.

The exemplary method 500 may, at step 520, comprise receiving acommunication signal with a second receiver module, where thecommunication signal is characterized by the first set of communicationsignal characteristics (e.g., similar to the communication signalreceived by the first receiver). That is, the second receiver may beadapted to receive and process the same type of communication signal(s)that the first receiver is adapted to receive and process.

For example and without limitation, the second receiver may sharevarious characteristics with the second receiver modules 120, 220, 270,320, 420 of the exemplary mobile communication devices 100, 200, 250,300, 400 illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 and discussed previously. For example,as with the first receiver, the second receiver may be adapted toreceive any of a variety of signals associated with variouscommunication media. Also, the second receiver may be adapted to receivea communication signal associated with any of a variety of communicationprotocols.

The second receiver may be adapted to consume a second amount of powerwhile processing the received communication signal. The second amount ofpower may, for example, be less (e.g., significantly less from a powerconsumption perspective) than the first amount of power consumed by thefirst receiver while processing the same communication signal or asimilar communication signal. In a non-limiting exemplary scenario, thesecond amount of power may be at least 10% less than the first amount ofpower. In another non-limiting exemplary scenario, the second amount ofpower may be at least 20% or 30% less than the first amount of power. Inyet another non-limiting exemplary scenario, the second amount of powermay be at least 50% or 80% less than the first amount of power. Theprevious discussion of the first receiver module 110 and the secondreceiver module 120 of FIG. 1 presented various non-limiting exemplaryscenarios including operational differences between different receivers.In general, the second receiver may utilize lower-quality componentsand/or perform lower-quality processing to conserve power.

Note that the first and second receivers may both be adapted to operatein one or more sleep modes and normal modes. For example, step 520 maycomprise waking the second receiver from a sleep state prior toreceiving the communication signal. Such waking may, for example, occurperiodically or in response to an operating condition.

The first and second receivers may be independent or may share variouscomponents. The first and second receivers may, for example, be adaptedto perform different primary functions. For example and withoutlimitation, the first receiver may be generally adapted to performgeneral communication signal reception and processing, while the secondreceiver may be specifically adapted to perform communication packetdetection.

The exemplary method 500 may, at step 530, comprise analyzing thereceived communication signal (e.g., as received and/or processed by thesecond receiver at step 520) to determine whether to operate the firstreceiver in the normal mode. Step 530 may, for example and withoutlimitation, share any or all functional characteristics with the sleepmode control modules 130, 230, 280, 330, 430 of the exemplary mobilecommunication devices 100, 200, 250, 300, 400 illustrated in FIGS. 1-4and discussed previously.

For example, step 530 may comprise analyzing information obtained fromthe communication signal received (and processed) by the second receiverat step 520. Step 530 may then, for example, based at least in part onthe information, determine whether to operate the first receiver in asleep mode or in a non-sleep (or “normal”) mode. Such information maycomprise characteristics of any of a variety of types of communicationinformation, including without limitation, source and/or destinationidentification information, message waiting or incoming communicationinformation, etc.

The exemplary method 500 may, at step 535, comprise performing flowcontrol for execution of the method 500. For example, if step 530comprised determining to wake the first receiver, then step 535 maydirect execution flow to step 540. If, however, step 530 compriseddetermining not to wake the first receiver, then step 535 may directexecution flow to step 595.

The exemplary method 500 may, at step 540, comprise operating the firstreceiver in the normal mode. Step 530 may comprise performing any of avariety of operations associated with waking a sleeping device ormodule. Such variety of operations may generally depend on theparticular type of sleep state in which the first receiver (orcomponents thereof) was placed at step 510. For example and withoutlimitation, step 540 may comprise providing a clock signal or a fasterclock signal to the first receiver (or portion thereof). Also forexample, step 540 may comprise turning on or increasing supplied powerto the first receiver (or portion thereof). Further for example, step540 may comprise routing signals to various components.

The exemplary method 500 may, at step 595, comprise performing continuedprocessing. Such continued processing may comprise characteristics ofany of a variety of types of continued processing. For example andwithout limitation, step 595 may comprise conducting generalcommunication utilizing the first receiver. Also for example, step 595may comprise notifying a user of an incoming communication.Additionally, for example, step 595 may comprise returning executionflow of the exemplary method 500 back up to step 520 for receiving andanalyzing additional communication signals. Further for example, step595 may comprise returning execution flow of the exemplary method 500back up to step 510 to place the first receiver back in a sleep mode.The scope of various aspects of the present invention should not belimited by characteristics of any particular type of continuedprocessing.

The exemplary method 500 was presented to provide specific illustrationsof various generally broader aspects of the present invention.Accordingly, the scope of various aspects of the present inventionshould not be limited by particular characteristics of the exemplarymethod 500.

The previous discussion of FIGS. 1-5 generally concerned exemplaryscenarios with dual radios or radio modules and a single type ofcommunication signal. Such exemplary scenarios were presented forillustrative clarity and should not limit the scope of various aspectsof the present invention to single-mode mobile communication devices.For example, various aspects of the present invention are readilyextensible to multi-mode radio systems (e.g., radios receivingcommunication signals communicated in accordance with more than onecommunication protocol). For example and without limitation, a firstreceiver or receiver module may receive a communication signal, analyzethe communication signal to determine whether to wake a second receiverassociated with a first communication protocol or a third receiverassociated with a second communication protocol. Also for example, afirst receiver or receiver module and a second receiver or receivermodule may both receive a communication signal and may each determinewhether to wake respective associated sleeping receivers.

In summary, various aspects of the present invention provide a mobilecommunication device with a low power receiver for signal detection anda method for utilizing a low power receiver for signal detection in amobile communication device. While the invention has been described withreference to certain aspects and embodiments, it will be understood bythose skilled in the art that various changes may be made andequivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of theinvention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt aparticular situation or material to the teachings of the inventionwithout departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that theinvention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed, butthat the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scopeof the appended claims.

1. A mobile communication device, comprising: a first receiver moduleadapted to consume a first amount of power while processing acommunication signal corresponding to a first communication protocol;and a second receiver module adapted to consume a second amount of powerwhile processing a communication signal corresponding to the firstcommunication protocol, where the second amount of power is less thanthe first amount of power.
 2. The mobile communication device of claim1, wherein: the first receiver module is adapted to operate in aplurality of modes comprising: a first mode characterized by sleep modecharacteristics; and a second mode, in which the first receiver moduleconsumes the first amount of power while processing a communicationsignal corresponding to the first communication protocol; and furthercomprising at least one module adapted to analyze a communication signalprocessed by the second receiver module to determine whether to operatethe first receiver module in the second mode.
 3. The mobilecommunication device of claim 2, wherein the at least one module isadapted to analyze information obtained from the communication signalprocessed by the second receiver module to determine whether to operatethe first receiver module in the second mode.
 4. The mobilecommunication device of claim 1, wherein the first receiver module andthe second receiver module share at least a portion of their respectivecomponents.
 5. The mobile communication device of claim 1, wherein: thefirst receiver module is adapted to process a received communicationsignal at a first level of performance; and the second receiver moduleis adapted to process a received communication signal at a second levelof performance less than the first level of performance.
 6. The mobilecommunication device of claim 1, wherein: the first receiver module isadapted to utilize a frequency synthesizer that generates a signalcharacterized by a first quality level; and the second receiver moduleis adapted to utilize a frequency synthesizer that generates a signalcharacterized by a second quality level that is less than the firstquality level.
 7. The mobile communication device of claim 1, wherein:the first receiver module is adapted to utilize an analog-to-digitalconverter characterized by a first quality level; and the secondreceiver module is adapted to utilize an analog-to-digital convertercharacterized by a second quality level that is less than the firstquality level.
 8. The mobile communication device of claim 1, wherein:the first receiver module is adapted to utilize a filter characterizedby a first quality level; and the second receiver module is adapted toutilize a filter characterized by a second quality level that is lessthan the first quality level.
 9. The mobile communication device ofclaim 1, wherein: the first receiver module is adapted to perform afirst amount of signal processing to process a first communicationsignal; and the second receiver module is adapted to perform a secondamount of signal processing, less than the first amount of signalprocessing, to process a second communication signal similar to thefirst communication signal.
 10. The mobile communication device of claim1, wherein: the first receiver module is adapted to process a firstcommunication signal at a first processing speed; and the secondreceiver module is adapted to process a second communication signal,similar to the first communication signal, at a second processing speedthat is less than the first processing speed.
 11. The mobilecommunication device of claim 1, wherein: the first receiver module isadapted to utilize a decoder characterized by a first level ofperformance; and the second receiver module is adapted to utilize adecoder characterized by a second level of performance that is less thanthe first level of performance.
 12. The mobile communication device ofclaim 1, wherein: the first receiver module is adapted to provide afirst voltage level to a first set of components of the first receivermodule; and the second receiver module is adapted to provide a secondvoltage level to a second set of components, corresponding to the firstset of components, where the second voltage level is different from thefirst voltage level.
 13. The mobile communication device of claim 1,wherein: the first receiver module is generally adapted to performgeneral communications; and the second receiver module is specificallyadapted to perform packet detection.
 14. The mobile communication deviceof claim 1, wherein the second receiver module is adapted to operate ina plurality of modes comprising: a first mode characterized by sleepmode characteristics; and a second mode, in which the second moduleprocesses a communication signal.
 15. A mobile communication device,comprising: a first receiver module adapted to operate in a plurality ofmodes comprising: a sleep mode characterized by sleep modecharacteristics; and a normal mode, in which the first receiver moduleperforms general communication activities by, at least in part,processing a communication signal corresponding to a first communicationprotocol; and a second receiver module specifically adapted to performpacket detection while the first receiver module is in the sleep modeby, at least in part, processing a communication signal that correspondsto the first communication protocol.
 16. The mobile communication deviceof claim 15, further comprising at least one module adapted to analyze acommunication signal processed by the second receiver module todetermine whether to operate the first receiver module in the normalmode.
 17. The mobile communication device of claim 15, wherein the firstreceiver module and the second receiver module share at least a portionof their respective components.
 18. The mobile communication device ofclaim 15, wherein the second receiver module is adapted to consume lesspower than the first receiver module when processing a similarcommunication signal.
 19. The mobile communication device of claim 15,wherein the second receiver module is adapted to perform at a lowerperformance level than the first receiver module.
 20. The mobilecommunication device of claim 15, wherein the second receiver is adaptedto operate in a sleep mode.
 21. In a mobile communication device, amethod for operating the mobile communication device in anenergy-efficient manner, the method comprising: operating a firstreceiver module in a sleep mode, wherein the first receiver module isadapted to, in a normal mode, consume a first amount of power whileprocessing a communication signal corresponding to a first communicationprotocol; and while operating the first receiver module in the sleepmode: receiving a communication signal with a second receiver module,wherein the second receiver module is adapted to consume a second amountof power, less than the first amount of power, while processing acommunication signal corresponding to the first communication protocol;and analyzing the received communication signal to determine whether tooperate the first receiver module in the normal mode.
 22. The method ofclaim 21, wherein the first receiver module and the second receivermodule share at least a portion of their respective components.
 23. Themethod of claim 21, wherein processing a communication signal with thesecond receiver comprises performing lower quality processing relativeto processing a communication signal with the first receiver.
 24. Themethod of claim 21, wherein the first receiver module is generallyadapted to perform general communications, and the second receivermodule is generally adapted to perform packet detection.
 25. The methodof claim 21, wherein receiving a communication signal with a secondreceiver module comprises waking the second receiver module from a sleepstate to receive the communication signal.